Chapters 7-9 Summary

As is customary for those fishermen who are about to set out for sea, Ishmael goes to take in a worship service at a local whaleman's chapel. The weather has changed from clear and sunny to sleet and mist as Ishmael heads for the chapel. Once there, he is surprised to see Queequeg among the gathered worshippers. As they wait, most of the worshippers look at three stone tablets placed on the walls of the church on either side of the pulpit. These tablets are placed in memory of seamen who have been killed in service. As Ishmael waits for the service to begin, he contemplates that his fate might be the same as the men who are commemorated on the plaques. He considers the unnatural fear man has of death and the hereafter. In conclusion, he decides if his fate...